Sep 12, 2023

Choosing the right auto parts for your car, truck, or SUV saves money and avoids stress about vehicle issues. When buying new brake pads or other components for your Ford, it’s best to choose genuine parts. Ford original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts have much better quality and durability than their aftermarket competitors, and they can give you outstanding performance. Our team at Brewster Ford has listed some key information about the differences between aftermarket and OEM parts, the advantages of choosing genuine, and the issues aftermarket components could cause.

Ford OEM Parts

Aftermarket vs. OEM Parts

Aftermarket parts come from third-party manufacturers, and they’re designed to replace OEM components. They’re usually cheaper than OEM parts and may be more easily available. However, Ford OEM parts are designed especially for Ford vehicles.

Ford doesn’t make all OEM parts, but the company approves ones made by other manufacturers. These are the same parts used when Ford vehicles were assembled, so you won’t have to worry about compatibility. Your insurance company can’t require you to choose a particular component for repair after an accident, but it can ask you to pay the difference if the OEM version you want is more expensive than an aftermarket option.

The Advantages of OEM Parts

With OEM parts, you don’t need to make adjustments to get a better fit, and they are also more durable than aftermarket options. They could be more expensive than the aftermarket versions, but they can save you money over time by reducing the risk of costly repairs or part replacements. In fact, there are multiple additional benefits to using OEM parts.

Protection for Your Warranty

Using genuine Ford parts for general maintenance or repairs protects your vehicle’s warranty. Most new Fords have a three-year general warranty and a five-year powertrain warranty. Ford OEM parts have an additional two-year unlimited-mileage warranty. New, genuine Ford gas engines and transmissions get another year, meaning they last for three years with unlimited mileage. With OEM spark plug wire sets, you’ll get a lifetime warranty.

If any defective components or manufacturing issues cause problems, the warranty for your vehicle or OEM parts will cover repair costs. However, installing aftermarket instead of OEM parts could void your vehicle’s warranty and leave you responsible for all repair costs. Extended warranties are available with gas, electric, or hybrid Fords, and they can last much longer than the standard warranties for OEM parts.

Thorough Inspections

Ford inspects OEM parts before selling them. Then, before installation, our technicians at Brewster Ford look at each component to ensure it is made to fit your Ford model. Our professionals are well-trained, and we provide outstanding service.

Maintained Value for Your Ford

It’s a good idea to keep detailed records of any repairs and maintenance you do to your vehicle. If you decide to sell or trade it in, you can often set a higher price by showing potential buyers your maintenance records and letting them know you chose genuine OEM parts. They are better quality than aftermarket options, and manufacturers don’t attempt to increase profits by cutting costs.

Many people prefer OEM parts because they last longer and they can maintain your vehicle’s outstanding performance. Ford OEM parts use top-grade materials, and since they rarely fail, they’re safer and more reliable than aftermarket components.

Help From Experienced Technicians

When you buy aftermarket parts, you have to search through a huge selection of many vehicle brands. An expert here at Brewster Ford can help you choose the right OEM part for your car, truck, or SUV. They can also install it for you. In many cases, there’s only one OEM option to replace a particular component, so having repairs or maintenance completed with genuine Ford parts is convenient and quick.

FordPass Rewards

FordPass Rewards offers points for Ford Parts Center purchases through the program’s mobile app or Visa card. You can also build up points from dealership purchases, tolls, monthly car insurance payments, parking, and maintenance. These points can give you substantial discounts at Brewster Ford. You can use them for Ford service, OEM accessories, or some of the down payment on your next new Ford. When you earn enough points to reach Ford’s Blue Tier, you’ll get a 10% bonus on the points you earn after that. We also offer parts specials on some OEM components.

Possible Issues With Aftermarket Parts

There are many aftermarket parts available, and you need to spend hours or days doing research to find the right one that’s suitable for your vehicle. While the makers of many aftermarket components focus on low prices, the manufacturers of OEM parts prioritize quality. Some aftermarket components have warranties, but they’re usually not as long as those for Ford OEM parts. Since aftermarket parts aren’t made only for Ford, they may not meet the exact specifications of your vehicle — this means they’re more likely to fail.

Modifying your Ford with aftermarket parts can lead to various problems. If an aftermarket part or accessory fails after you sell your vehicle, you could be liable for any damages or injuries. Many aftermarket components don’t meet the same standards and requirements as OEM ones, so they’re not as safe or reliable. If you use an aftermarket version to replace a part of your vehicle’s body or bumper, it may not match well. In contrast, the appearance and performance of OEM parts are just like the originals, so your vehicle can still look excellent after repairs, upgrades, or maintenance.

For the Best Quality, Choose Ford OEM Parts

You can order OEM parts online, call us, or visit us in person. Our service and parts departments are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. We’re a family-run business that started in 1972, so we have the experience to help you use OEM parts to keep your Ford in outstanding shape. We can also help you buy or lease a new Ford car, truck, or SUV. Our goal is customer satisfaction, and our many excellent staff members are happy to serve new and returning customers.